Dùn Totaig from Letterfearn

Summary

A lovely walk along the shore of Loch Duich, with good views of Eilean Donan Castle, to the slipway and cottage at Totaig and then through woodland to visit the impressive remains of an iron age broch. There are superb views across the loch.

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Please read the WARNING below before setting out on this route.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Minor road alongside Loch Duich and then a clear path with stepping stones over a small stream. To access the broch you need to climb up a grassy bank.

Getting there

Start

Letterfearn on the south side of Loch Duich.

Public Transport

None.

Start Grid Ref

NG884238

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 6.75km / 4.25 miles
Time: 2 - 2.5 hours
Ascent: 282m (Profile)

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Walk Description

User reports (3)

WARNING

A landslide has led to the temporary closure of the path used on this walk. Local people have marked a detour (using tape) around the bottom of this - though it is very boggy.

The information shown above is the latest we have. If you have an update then please email us.

Stage 1

The walk is described from Letterfearn; parking in the area has become more difficult as the more responible spots have been blocked off - use care and consideration. The walk heads west along the quiet road. There are lovely views across Loch Duich to the Five Sisters of Kintail. The road hugs the coastline, where herons and other wildlife can easily be seen. After passing Druidaig Lodge the road enters mature, mixed woodland. Through the trees, Eilean Donan castle near Dornie can be seen across the loch. Eventually the end of the public road is reached; pass through a gate and continue along the private lane.

Stage 2

The lane leads to a picturesque white cottage and slipway at Totaig. Seals can often be seen here, basking on the rocks offshore. Continue along the rougher track beyond the cottage. Soon it starts to climb gently uphill. Ignore a couple of gates on the right and stay on the main path up through the woods.

Stage 3

The path narrows and leads through a wooden kissing gate. Follow it uphill, soon emerging from the trees. There are good views back over Dornie and Eilean Donan castle. Continue on the grassy path, crossing a small stream on stepping stones. Soon after the stream the broch ruins can be seen up on the left. There is a rough path which leads up to the broch - which is well worth exploring.

Stage 4

The broch, an iron age defensive home, has an impressive triangular lintel over the entrance. Venturing inside you can see the double-walled structure with steps remaining and a still-covered passageway between parts of the walls. The broch has not been restored and the moss and other plants growing on the ruins make the place very atmospheric. The situation is stunning; the hill is known as Faire an Duine which means the Watchplace of the Fort. Caisteal Grugaig is said to be the home of the witch Grugaig, who was the mother of the giants Telve and Todder who built the Glenelg brochs.

Stage 5

Back on the path below the broch, it is possible to continue up the path, climbing quite steeply, to enjoy even better views. When the path levels off there's a glimpse through the trees towards the Skye Bridge.

Stage 6

Our route returns to Letterfearn from here; simply turn back and retrace your steps all the way back - with that wonderful view over Loch Duich ahead.

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